Amateur photographers were asked to send in their favourite photos from the past 12 months, whether they were action-packed sports shots, colourful scenic landscapes or touching portraits.

All photos were judged by a panel of experts on subject, composition, impact and other criteria.

The contest closed July 4.

Finalists will receive full VIP access to the Abbotsford International Airshow, which runs Aug. 8-10, with preferred viewing to take photos of all the action. They will also compete for more than $1,500 in prizes and the chance to be named the Next Generation Amateur Photographer of the Year.

Last year, Black Press received just shy of 2,000 entries for the Your Best Shot contest from amateur photographers from Kelowna, Hope, Vancouver and communities around B.C. Sixty-seven finalists gathered at the Abbotsford International Airshow, submitting their best photos for the final competition. Last year’s winner was Rod Jones of Abbotsford.

This contest recently earned first place in the North American Local Media Association Awards’ Best Contest category.